Most camera systems show a distance counter on screen, measured from where the camera entered the line. Writing down findings with that distance lets you match them to the yard, the foundation or the property line, and compare one video with another later.
Watch the video once all the way through, then a second time with this worksheet, pausing at each finding.
Finding log
| Distance | Pipe material | Finding | Severity (minor / watch / act) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
What you may see
- Hairline roots
- Thin root strands entering at a joint; early intrusion.
- Root mass
- Thick roots filling much of the pipe; a common backup cause.
- Standing water
- Water that does not drain from a section, often a sign of a sag.
- Lip or ledge
- An offset joint where one section has moved out of line.
- Scale
- Rough buildup inside cast iron that narrows the pipe.
- Missing pipe wall
- Soil visible through the pipe, indicating serious damage.
Check the video covers everything
- Where the camera entered the line, and where it stopped
- Whether it reached the city sewer main or stopped short
- Each change in pipe material
- Any branch lines joining the main
- Sections that could not be seen because of water or debris
Questions to ask after review
- Which findings need action now, and which can be watched?
- Is the line a candidate for lining, or does it need replacement in places?
- What would a follow-up video in a year or two show us?
- Can I keep a copy of the full video file?
Common questions
Do I need to understand every finding myself?
No. The goal is to know where each issue is and what the plumber recommends, so you can ask good questions and compare opinions.
Why does the picture go dark or underwater?
The camera may pass through standing water in a sag or through a section with heavy debris. Note those spots; they often matter.
Can I share the video with a second plumber?
Yes. A full video lets another plumber give an opinion without starting from scratch.
General information for Downtown Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.